The Negroni is one of the most delicious and beloved classic cocktails. It has the perfect balance of sweet and bitter that exemplifies Italian cocktails & Aperitivo. We love the Negroni as much as anybody, but did you know it has cousins? Introducing the Negroni Sbagliato and the Negroni Americano: two drinks based on the Negroni but with a slightly different flavor profile.
Let's start at the beginning.
The Classic Negroni
- 1 oz dry gin
- 1 oz Campari
- 1 oz sweet vermouth
- Garnish with orange
Steps
- Combine the gin, Campari, and sweet vermouth into a mixer filled with ice, and stir until frosty.
- Strain into cocktail glass with ice
- Garnish with orange
There are some variations, but this will provide a reliably delicious Negroni. The key ingredient in the Negroni is Campari. It's a classic liquor that provides the complex old-school flavor that most modern cocktails miss.
On a lighter note: The Negroni Americano
- 1 1/2 oz Campari
- 1 1/2 oz sweet vermouth
- Soda water, Chilled
- Garnish with orange
Steps
- Combine Campari, and sweet vermouth into a mixer filled with ice and stir.
- Strain into cocktail glass with ice
- Top with soda water and stir gently to combine
- Garnish with orange
The Americano is prized for, above all else, its drinkability. Its low alcohol content and light, bubbly flavor make it a welcome addition to any warm afternoon or meal outdoors.
Did someone say bubbles? The Negroni Ssbagliato
- 1 1/2 oz Campari
- 1 1/2 oz sweet vermouth
- 1 1/2 oz Prosecco
- Garnish with orange
Steps
- Combine Campari and sweet vermouth into a mixer filled with ice and stir.
- Strain into Champagne flute
- Top with prosecco and stir lightly
- Garnish with orange
They say a bartender accidentally created this instant classic when they added prosecco instead of Gin to a Negroni. I don't buy it. I think that bartender knew exactly what they were doing. It's a fantastic twist on a classic spritz. It would be highly welcome anytime you are outside with friends, particularly on a warm fall day.
Consider some of our bartender-approved wine and spirits items to help make these cocktails in style! Ciao.